Roy Nelson

{{Infobox martial artist

| name = Roy Nelson

| other_names = Big Country

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1976|6|20}}

| birth_place = Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.

| nationality =

| height = 6 ft 0 in

| weight_class = Heavyweight

| reach = 72 inches

| stance = Orthodox

| style = Karate Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Wrestling Boxing Kung Fu

| fighting_out_of = Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.

| team = Xtreme Couture

| trainer = Boxing: Jeff Mayweather
Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu: Renzo Gracie

| rank = Black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Renzo Gracie{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/athlete/roy-nelson|title=Roy Nelson – Official UFC Fighter Profile|publisher=UFC|access-date=September 27, 2015}}
Black sash in Kung Fu

| years_active = 2004–Present (MMA)

| mma_kowin = 16

| mma_subwin = 4

| mma_decwin = 4

| mma_koloss = 3

| mma_subloss =

| mma_decloss = 17

| mma_nc =

| sherdog = 10249

| medaltemplates =

{{MedalCountry| {{USA}} }}

{{MedalGold|2005 California, USA {{color box|brown}} |+100kg}}

{{MedalBronze|2003 California, USA {{color box|brown}} |+100kg}}

|weight=249 lb}}

Roy Nelson (born June 20, 1976){{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/mma/fighter/_/id/1172/roy-nelson |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100320103316/http://espn.go.com/mma/fighter/_/id/1172/roy-nelson |url-status=dead |archive-date=March 20, 2010 |title=Roy Nelson |access-date=2010-06-22 |publisher=ESPN.GO.COM |date=June 22, 2010}} is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the Heavyweight division. As a professional, he has competed for the UFC, EliteXC, the IFL, BodogFIGHT, and most recently for Bellator MMA. In the UFC, Nelson was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights and achieved success as a top 10 UFC Heavyweight. Nelson is also the former IFL Heavyweight Champion, competing under Ken Shamrock and the Lion's Den.{{cite web|last1=Kelly|first1=Michael|title=FIGHT DOCTOR: BIG COUNTRY'S GRANITE CHIN|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/fight-doctor-big-countrys-granite-chin|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130626002645/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/fight-doctor-big-countrys-granite-chin|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 26, 2013|website=fightland.vice.com/|access-date=24 September 2017}}{{cite web|last1=Pikey|first1=W.C|title=Roy Nelson Shows Granite Chin In Loss to Junior Dos Santos|url=http://www.squabbles.com/2010/08/roy-nelson-shows-granite-chin-in-loss-to-junior-dos-santos/|website=www.squabbles.com|access-date=24 September 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120317052432/http://www.squabbles.com/2010/08/roy-nelson-shows-granite-chin-in-loss-to-junior-dos-santos/|archive-date=March 17, 2012|df=mdy-all}}{{cite web|last1=Matuszak|first1=Sascha|title=THE GOLDEN BELL: THE SECRET TO ROY NELSON'S IRON CHIN|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-golden-bell-the-secret-to-roy-nelsons-iron-chin|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140920205133/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-golden-bell-the-secret-to-roy-nelsons-iron-chin|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 20, 2014|website=fightland.vice.com/|date=January 22, 2019 |publisher=vice}} He holds notable victories over Mirko Cro Cop, Cheick Kongo, and Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira.

Background

Nelson was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada, and attended Cimarron-Memorial High School, where he competed in wrestling, football, and baseball. Nelson briefly trained in karate and began training in Ark Wong's Ng Ga Kuen{{Cite web|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-golden-bell-the-secret-to-roy-nelsons-iron-chin|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140920205133/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/the-golden-bell-the-secret-to-roy-nelsons-iron-chin|url-status=dead|archive-date=September 20, 2014|title = Fightland| date=January 22, 2019 }} Shaolin Kung Fu when he was 15 years old. Nelson worked briefly in a warehouse in 1999. Nelson originally began training in Brazilian jiu-jitsu under UFC veteran John Lewis in 2000. After seven years working as a substitute teacher and after-school program volunteer in Clark County,{{cite web|url=https://lasvegassun.com/news/2010/apr/09/everything-you-dont-know-about-roy-big-country-nel/|title=Everything you don't know about Roy 'Big Country' Nelson|date=April 9, 2010 |access-date=January 21, 2022}} Nelson began his own career in mixed martial arts. Nelson has been a long-time student of Brazilian jiu-jitsu master Renzo Gracie, who granted him a black belt on August 26, 2009. Nelson was known initially for his strong jiu-jitsu skills, having consistently won jiu-jitsu tournaments before his MMA career, conclusively beating Frank Mir, Brandon Vera, and Diego Sanchez in the same day to win a Grapplers Quest championship in 2003,{{Cite web |last=Curreri |first=Frank |date=May 26, 2011 |title=Eight Years Later, Nelson Aims For 2-0 Against Mir |url=https://www.ufc.com/news/eight-years-later-nelson-aims-2-0-against-mir |access-date=2023-05-16 |website=UFC}}{{Cite web |last=Martin |first=Damon |date=April 7, 2014 |title=Roy Nelson won a lot of grappling tournaments but never once trained for a match |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/ufc/roy-nelson-won-a-lot-of-grappling-tournaments-but-never-once-trained-for-a-match |access-date=2023-05-16 |website=Fox Sports}} and competing at the ADCC World Championships the same year.{{Cite web |title=ADCC Submission Fighting World Championship 2003 |url=https://adcombat.com/adcc-events/adcc-2003-results/ |access-date=2023-05-16 |website=ADCC}}

Prior to Nelson's professional mixed martial arts career, he played rugby for the Las Vegas Blackjacks for two seasons (2002–2003).

Mixed martial arts career

=Early career=

Nelson made his professional mixed martial arts debut at a tournament on April 17, 2004. Nelson won both of his fights, winning the Rage on the River Heavyweight Tournament. Nelson compiled a record of 6–1 before being signed by the IFL.

=IFL=

As a member of Ken Shamrock's Lion's Den,{{cite web |url=http://www.kenshamrock.com/fighters/roy-big-country-nelson/ |title=Roy "Big Country" Nelson Profile |access-date=2010-12-30 |publisher=Kenshamrock.com |date=December 30, 2010 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110824215057/http://www.kenshamrock.com/fighters/roy-big-country-nelson/ |archive-date=August 24, 2011 |df=mdy-all }} Nelson was asked to become a member of the IFL's Nevada Lions in 2007, and made his promotional debut at IFL: Oakland on January 19, 2007, against veteran Vince Lucero. Nelson won via TKO in the first round.

In the 2007 IFL World Grand Prix, Nelson became the Heavyweight Champion,{{cite web |url=http://www.grapplersquest.com/blogs/briancimins/flashback-2003-roy-nelson-beats-frank-mir-brandon-vera-and-diego-sanchez-be-crowne |title=Flashback to 2003: Roy Nelson beats Frank Mir, Brandon Vera, and Diego Sanchez to be crowned Grapplers Quest Superfight Champion |access-date=2010-12-30 |publisher=Grapplersquest.com |date=January 18, 2010}} defeating Antoine Jaoude on December 29, 2007. Nelson successfully defended his title twice, before the IFL ceased operations.

=Post-IFL=

After the IFL ceased operations Nelson took a fight with EliteXC on 10 days' notice against former UFC Heavyweight Champion Andrei Arlovski. Roy Nelson lost via KO in the second round; however, controversy broke out over Nelson being stood up by the referee in the first round from side control, while staying active and working on a kimura.{{cite web |url=http://www.octagonbuzz.com/roy-nelson-interview |title=Roy Nelson Interview |publisher=www.octagonbuzz.com |date=October 9, 2008}}{{cite web |url=http://www.mmanews.com/news/82880 |title=MMANews.com Exclusive: Interview With Roy Nelson |publisher=www.mmanews.com |date= October 8, 2008}}

He then went on to fight for Roy Jones Jr.'s Square Ring Promotions against Jeff Monson. This fight also ended in a controversial loss for Nelson. According to the TV commentators and most MMA media, Nelson won the bout. However, Monson was awarded a unanimous decision.{{cite web |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/mma/blog/cagewriter/post/Monson-takes-an-odd-decision-from-Nelson?urn=mma-149614 |title=Monson takes an odd decision from Nelson |publisher=sports.yahoo.com |date=March 22, 2009}}{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/14329/monson-earns-controversial-win-lashley-smothers-guida-at-march-badness.mma |title=Monson earns controversial win, Lashley smothers Guida at "March Badness" |publisher=mmajunkie.com |date=March 22, 2009 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110909214847/http://mmajunkie.com/news/14329/monson-earns-controversial-win-lashley-smothers-guida-at-march-badness.mma |archive-date=September 9, 2011 |df=mdy-all }}

=''The Ultimate Fighter''=

Nelson was one of the sixteen fighters in The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights.{{cite web|url=http://mmamadness.com/insight/news/3936|title=Vida e Saúde|access-date=September 5, 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090612022239/http://mmamadness.com/insight/news/3936|archive-date=June 12, 2009|df=mdy-all}} He provided commentary on the show for multiple websites, including weekly Q&A sessions about each individual episode for USA Today's Fighting Stances{{cite web |url=http://content.usatoday.com/communities/mma/post/2009/09/tufs-nelson-dishes-on-episode-1/1 |title=TUF's Nelson dishes on Episode 1 |access-date=2010-12-30 |publisher=Usatoday.com |date=September 16, 2009}} and a blog for SpikeTV.com.{{cite web |url=http://www.ultimatefighter.com/blog/roy-nelson-introductions |title=Roy Nelson: Introductions |access-date=2009-10-01 |publisher=Ultimatefighter.com |date=September 17, 2009}}

In his first fight of the show, Nelson defeated former street-fighter Kimbo Slice via TKO stoppage in the second round with repeated punches to the head in the crucifix position.{{cite web |url=http://www.blitzcorner.com/MMA/Kimbo-Slice-vs-Roy-Nelson-Results |title=Kimbo Slice vs Roy Nelson Results|access-date=2010-12-30 |publisher=Blitzcorner.com|date=October 1, 2009}} The broadcast was the highest rated MMA show in U.S. history with a 3.7 rating. The fight itself had 6 million viewers.Wrestling Observer Newsletter, October 12, 2009 issue

In the quarterfinals, Nelson defeated Justin Wren in a two-round majority decision. In the semi-finals, Nelson defeated James McSweeney via strikes in the first round again utilizing the crucifix position. He defeated Brendan Schaub at The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights Finale to become the winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights. In the finale, Nelson knocked out Schaub at 3:45 into the first round with a right hook to Schaub's left temple and then hit Schaub on the ground with one punch to the face before the referee pulled Nelson off Schaub. With the win, Nelson earned a six-figure contract with the UFC.

=Ultimate Fighting Championship=

Nelson was scheduled to fight Cheick Kongo, though the bout was cancelled after Kongo withdrew.{{cite web|url=http://riddum.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=716:cheick-kongo-injured-no-confirmation-on-roy-nelson-matchup-nor-ufc-116-return&catid=50:ufc-news&Itemid=122/ |title=Cheick Kongo injured, no confirmation on Roy Nelson matchup, nor UFC 116|publisher=RIDDUM.com |date=May 4, 2010}} Nelson instead faced Junior dos Santos at UFC 117{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/19070/roy-nelson-vs-junior-dos-santos-in-the-works-for-ufc-117-main-card.mma|title=Roy Nelson vs. Junior Dos Santos in the works for UFC 117 main card|publisher=MMAjunkie.com.com |access-date=May 10, 2010}} in a bout to determine the #1 contender (after Cain Velasquez) to the UFC Heavyweight Championship.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/19807/lesnar-vs-velasquez-up-next-for-ufc-title-dos-santos-vs-nelson-winner-on-deck.mma|title=Lesnar vs. Velasquez up next for UFC title; dos Santos vs. Nelson winner on deck|publisher=mmajunkie.com|access-date=August 8, 2010}} Nelson lost by unanimous decision, but was able to withstand the varied attacks of dos Santos, as he became the first man to take dos Santos to a decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/20207/ufc-117-winner-junior-dos-santos-gets-his-heavyweight-title-shot.mma|title=UFC 117 winner Junior dos Santos gets his heavyweight title shot|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=August 8, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120526004405/http://mmajunkie.com/news/20207/ufc-117-winner-junior-dos-santos-gets-his-heavyweight-title-shot.mma|archive-date=May 26, 2012|df=mdy-all}} Nelson was scheduled to face Shane Carwin at UFC 125.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/21013/ufc-125-official-for-jan-1-with-edgar-maynard-carwin-nelson-co-headliners.mma|title=UFC 125 official for Jan. 1 with Edgar-Maynard, Carwin-Nelson co-headliners|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=October 14, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717082302/http://mmajunkie.com/news/21013/ufc-125-official-for-jan-1-with-edgar-maynard-carwin-nelson-co-headliners.mma|archive-date=July 17, 2012|df=mdy-all}} Carwin, however, had to pull out of the fight due to a back injury. Nelson was pulled off the card altogether.{{cite web|url=http://www.shane-carwin.com/profiles/blog/show?id=2644239:BlogPost:58868&xgs=1&xg_source=msg_share_post|title=Fight Update *Updated*|publisher=shane-carwin.com|date=October 26, 2010}}

On November 14, 2010, UFC President Dana White announced that Nelson's UFC career would be on hold due to Nelson being contractually bound to another fight promotion. White declined to specifically name the promotion, but sources close to Nelson confirmed that Roy Jones Jr.'s Square Ring Promotions claimed to have Nelson tied down.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/21399/white-roy-nelsons-ufc-career-on-hold-until-outside-contract-issues-resolved.mma|title=White: Roy Nelson's UFC career on hold until outside contract issues resolved|access-date=November 14, 2010|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115203231/http://mmajunkie.com/news/21399/white-roy-nelsons-ufc-career-on-hold-until-outside-contract-issues-resolved.mma|archive-date=November 15, 2010|df=mdy-all}} Nelson stated on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani that this is old news and that he is still able to fight in the UFC with no problems.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2010/11/22/despite-contract-issues-roy-nelson-intends-to-fight-in-2011/ |title=Despite Contract Issues, Roy Nelson Intends to Fight in 2011|access-date=2010-12-30|publisher=Mmafighting.com |date=November 22, 2010}}

Nelson faced Frank Mir on May 28, 2011, at UFC 130 and lost by unanimous decision. UFC president Dana White criticized Nelson's performance after the fight for Nelson's lack of conditioning. Nelson blamed a bout with the flu for his poor performance.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/22015/contract-issues-resolved-roy-nelson-vs-frank-mir-targeted-for-ufc-130.mma|title=Contract issues resolved, Roy Nelson vs. Frank Mir targeted for UFC 130|publisher=mmajunkie.com |date=January 7, 2011}} Nelson indicated that he has plans of cutting weight and fighting in the light heavyweight division at some point in the future.{{cite web |url=http://www.espn.co.uk/ufc/sport/story/106069.html|title=Big Country Nelson will 'die' trying to make 205lbs |publisher=espn.co.uk |date=August 16, 2011}}

Nelson faced Mirko Cro Cop on October 29, 2011, at UFC 137 and won by TKO in the third round.{{cite web|url=http://www.bloodyelbow.com/2011/7/13/2273685/mirko-cro-cop-filipovic-vs-roy-nelson-planned-for-ufc-137|title=Mirko "Cro Cop" Filipovic vs. Roy Nelson Planned for UFC 137 |work=bloodyelbow.com|last=Haber |first=Scott |date=July 13, 2011}}

Nelson next fought the returning Fabrício Werdum at UFC 143 on February 4, 2012.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/26546/roy-nelson-vs-fabricio-werdum-slotted-for-ufc-143.mma|title=Roy Nelson vs. Fabrício Werdum slotted for UFC 143 in February|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=December 14, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120710225235/http://mmajunkie.com/news/26546/roy-nelson-vs-fabricio-werdum-slotted-for-ufc-143.mma|archive-date=July 10, 2012|df=mdy-all}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision. The back and forth action earned Fight of the Night honors.

Nelson was scheduled to face Antônio Silva on May 26, 2012, at UFC 146, but Silva was moved up to fight Cain Velasquez.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/27761/antonio-silva-vs-roy-nelson-slated-for-ufc-146-in-las-vegas.mma|title=Antonio Silva vs. Roy Nelson slated for UFC 146 in Las Vegas|publisher=mmajunkie.com |date=March 7, 2012 |access-date=March 7, 2012}} Nelson was then briefly expected to face Gabriel Gonzaga.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/28398/gabriel-gonzaga-fills-open-slot-against-roy-nelson-at-ufc-146.mma|title=Gabriel Gonzaga fills open slot against Roy Nelson at UFC 146|work=mmajunkie.com|date=April 23, 2012|access-date=April 23, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120713130154/http://mmajunkie.com/news/28398/gabriel-gonzaga-fills-open-slot-against-roy-nelson-at-ufc-146.mma|archive-date=July 13, 2012|df=mdy-all}} However, Gonzaga himself was forced out of the bout with an injury and replaced by Dave Herman,{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2012/5/2/2993256/ufc-146-fight-card-roy-nelson-vs-dave-herman-gabriel-gonzaga-injured|title=Roy Nelson vs Dave Herman booked with Gabriel Gonzaga injured |work=mmamania.com|date=May 2, 2012|access-date=May 2, 2012}} who Nelson knocked out in 51 seconds. He earned Knockout of the Night honors due to his performance. Joe Rogan said on the live broadcast that "When Herman sat down on his ass, he had no idea where he was".{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1197720-ufc-146-results-10-memorable-moments-from-dos-santos-vs-mir-in-las-vegas#/articles/1197720-ufc-146-results-10-memorable-moments-from-dos-santos-vs-mir-in-las-vegas/page/8|title=A Ranging Right|work=bleacherreport.com|date=May 27, 2012|access-date=May 27, 2012}}

It was announced on July 12, 2012, that Nelson would be coaching on the show, The Ultimate Fighter, against fellow heavyweight Shane Carwin,{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Shane-Carwin-Roy-Nelson-Named-Coaches-for-TUF-16-on-FX-44137|title=Shane Carwin, Roy Nelson Named Coaches for 'TUF 16' on FX|publisher=sherdog.com|date=July 12, 2012}} with the two expected to face each other on December 15, 2012, at The Ultimate Fighter: Team Carwin vs. Team Nelson Finale.{{cite web |url=http://mmajunkie.com/news/30432/tuf-16-finale-not-ufc-on-fx-6-slated-for-dec-15-in-las-vegas.mma |title=TUF 16 Finale, not UFC on FX 6, slated for Dec. 15 in Las Vegas |publisher=mmajunkie.com |access-date=August 30, 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120901204040/http://mmajunkie.com/news/30432/tuf-16-finale-not-ufc-on-fx-6-slated-for-dec-15-in-las-vegas.mma |archive-date=September 1, 2012 |df=mdy-all }} On November 14, it was announced that Shane Carwin injured his knee and wouldn't be able to fight. On November 15, it was reported that Nelson would face Matt Mitrione at the TUF 16 Finale.{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/news/news/Matt-Mitrione-Steps-In-For-Injured-Shane-Carwin-against-Roy-Nelson-at-TUF-16-Finale-47441|date=November 15, 2012|title=Matt Mitrione Steps in For Injured Shane Carwin Against Roy Nelson At 'TUF 16' Finale|work=sherdog.com|access-date=November 15, 2012}} Nelson defeated Mitrione via first-round TKO.

Nelson faced Cheick Kongo on April 27, 2013, at UFC 159.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmajunkie.com/news/2013/01/davis-vs-magalhaes-kongo-vs-nelson-added-to-ufc-159|title=Kongo vs. Nelson added to UFC 159|publisher=mmajunkie.com| date=January 29, 2013}} Nelson won the fight by knockout at 2:03 of the first round. The win also won him his fourth Knockout of the Night bonus award.

Nelson faced Stipe Miocic on June 15, 2013, at UFC 161.{{cite web|url=http://topmmanews.com/2013/05/21/roy-nelson-and-stipe-miocic-added-to-ufc-161-card/|title=Roy Nelson and Stipe Miocic Added to UFC 161 Card|publisher=TopMMANews.com| date=May 21, 2013}} Miocic defeated Nelson via unanimous decision. There was speculation about his MMA future because his contract was expiring, but Nelson renewed it soon after.

Nelson faced Daniel Cormier on October 19, 2013, at UFC 166.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2013/7/22/4547468/ufc-166-fight-card-roy-nelson-re-sign-ufc-vs-daniel-cormier|work=MMA Fighting |title=Roy Nelson re-signs with UFC, meets Daniel Cormier in UFC 166 co-main event |first=Al-Shatti |last=Shaun |date=July 22, 2013 |publisher=Vox Media |access-date=July 22, 2013 }} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.

Nelson faced Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira on April 11, 2014, in the main event at UFC Fight Night 39.{{cite web|url=http://msn.foxsports.com/ufc/story/roy-nelson-vs-antonio-rodrigo-nogueira-set-for-ufc-abu-dhabi-show-013014|title=Roy Nelson vs. Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira set for UFC Abu Dhabi show |publisher=msn.foxsports.com|author=Mike Chiapetta|access-date=2014-01-30|date=January 30, 2014}} After dropping Nogueira several times with punches in the first round, Nelson finished the fight via knockout with an overhand right.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmamania.com/2014/4/11/5605574/ufc-fight-night-39-results-roy-nelson-knocks-out-antonio-rodrigo-nogueira-brutal|title=UFC Fight Night 39 results: Roy Nelson knocks out Antonio Rodrigo Nogueira in brutal fashion|publisher=mmamania.com|author=Gene Mrosko|access-date=2014-04-11|date=April 11, 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://thebiglead.com/2014/04/11/roy-nelson-knocked-out-big-nog-cold-at-ufc-fight-night-39/|title=Roy Nelson knocked out "Big Nog" cold at UFC Fight Night 39|publisher=thebiglead.com|author=Stephen Douglas|access-date=2014-04-11|date=April 11, 2014}} The win also earned Nelson his first Performance of the Night bonus award.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/04/ufc-fight-night-39-bonuses-clay-guida-tatsuya-kawajiri-nab-fotn-honors/|title=UFC Fight Night 39 bonuses: Clay Guida, Tatsuya Kawajiri nab 'FOTN' honors|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|access-date=2014-04-11|date=April 11, 2014}} Nelson broke his right hand during the fight for which he required surgery in order to repair.{{cite web|url=http://mmanuts.com/news/roy-nelson-broke-hand-big-nogs-head/ |title=Roy Nelson Broke His Hand on Big Nog's Head |publisher=mmanuts.com|author=Dave Walsh |date=April 15, 2014|access-date=April 15, 2014}}

Nelson next faced Mark Hunt on September 20, 2014, in the main event at UFC Fight Night 52.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2014/05/roy-nelson-vs-mark-hunt-targeted-for-ufc-fight-night-51-in-japan|title=Roy Nelson vs. Mark Hunt targeted for UFC Fight Night 52 in Japan|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=May 30, 2014|access-date=May 30, 2014}} Nelson lost the fight via knockout in the second round. It was his first loss by knockout and his first finished fight outside round 1 in a scheduled 5-round fight.

Nelson faced Alistair Overeem on March 14, 2015, at UFC 185.{{cite web|url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2015/1/6/7505839/ufc-185-fight-card-alistair-overeem-vs-roy-nelson|title=Alistair Overeem vs. Roy Nelson slated for UFC 185|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Shaun Al-Shatti|date=January 6, 2015|access-date=2015-01-07}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.

After working as a coach on Road to UFC Japan, Nelson faced Josh Barnett on September 27, 2015, in the main event at UFC Fight Night 75.{{cite news|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/ufc-josh-barnett-vs-roy-nelson-headlines-ufc-s-return-to-japan-051415|title=Josh Barnett vs. Roy Nelson headlines UFC's return to Japan |work=foxsports.com|author=Damon Martin|date=May 14, 2015|access-date=2015-05-14}} He lost the fight via unanimous decision.

Nelson faced Jared Rosholt on February 6, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 82.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2015/12/ufc-196-adds-hendricks-thompson-nelson-rosholt-burkman-nonon-pyle-spencer|title=UFC Fight Night 82 adds Nelson-Rosholt|publisher=mmajunkie.com|date=December 13, 2015|access-date=2015-12-13}} He won the fight by unanimous decision (30–27, 30–27, and 29–28).{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/02/ufc-fight-night-82-results-roy-nelson-tops-jared-rosholt-for-first-decision-win-since-2007|title=UFC Fight Night 82 results: Roy Nelson tops Jared Rosholt for first decision win since 2007|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Ben Fowlkes|date=February 6, 2016|access-date=2016-02-06}}

Nelson faced Derrick Lewis on July 7, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 90{{cite web|url=http://www.reviewjournal.com/sports/mma-ufc/roy-nelson-fight-derrick-lewis-july-7-las-vegas|title=Roy Nelson to fight Derrick Lewis on July 7 in Las Vegas|publisher=reviewjournal.com|author=Adam Hill|date=April 29, 2016|access-date=2016-04-29}} Even though breaking his personal record of most takedowns in a fight with 7, Nelson lost via split decision.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/07/twitter-reacts-to-derrick-lewis-split-decision-over-roy-nelson-at-ufc-fight-night-90|title=Twitter reacts to Derrick Lewis' split-decision over Roy Nelson at UFC Fight Night 90|date=July 8, 2016|language=en-US|access-date=2016-07-08}}

Nelson faced Antônio Silva on September 24, 2016, at UFC Fight Night 95.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/08/roy-nelson-vs-antonio-silva-added-to-ufc-fight-night-95-event|title=Roy Nelson vs. Antonio Silva added to UFC Fight Night 95 in Brazil|publisher=mmajunkie|author=Dann Stupp|date=August 3, 2016|access-date=2016-08-03}} He won the fight by knockout in the second round.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2016/09/ufc-fight-night-95-results-roy-nelson-blasts-bigfoot-silva-for-second-round-knockout|title=UFC Fight Night 95 results: Roy Nelson blasts 'Bigfoot' for second-round KO, then blasts ref McCarthy|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Steven Marrocco|access-date=2016-09-25|date=September 25, 2016}} After the fight, out of frustration with what he thought was a late stoppage, Nelson push-kicked referee John McCarthy.{{cite web|url=http://www.foxsports.com/ufc/story/roy-nelson-kos-bigfoot-silva-pushes-referee-after-stoppage-092416|title=Roy Nelson KOs 'Bigfoot' Silva, pushes referee after stoppage|last=Martin|first=Damon|access-date=2016-09-25}}

Nelson faced Alexander Volkov on April 15, 2017, at UFC on Fox 24.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/03/roy-nelson-meets-ex-bellator-champ-alexander-volkov-at-ufc-on-fox-24-in-kansas-city|title=Roy Nelson meets ex-Bellator champ Alexander Volkov at UFC on FOX 24 in Kansas City|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=March 14, 2017|access-date=2017-03-14}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.{{cite news|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/04/ufc-on-fox-24-results-alexander-volkov-unanimous-win-roy-nelson|title=UFC on FOX 24 results: Alexander Volkov picks apart Roy Nelson for clean-sweep victory|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Steven Marrocco|date=April 15, 2017|access-date=2017-04-15}}

=Bellator MMA=

In May 2017, it was announced that Nelson's contract with the UFC had expired in April{{Cite news|url=http://www.fightful.com/roy-nelson-signs-bellator-mma|title=Roy Nelson Signs With Bellator MMA|date=May 26, 2017|work=Fightful.com|access-date=2017-05-30}} and that he had a signed multi-fight contract with Bellator MMA.{{cite web |url=http://www.mmafighting.com/2017/5/26/15701190/roy-nelson-signs-with-bellator |title=Roy Nelson signs with Bellator|access-date=2017-05-26|publisher=Mmafighting.com |date=May 26, 2017}}

In his debut Nelson faced Javy Ayala at Bellator 183 on September 23, 2017.{{cite web|url=http://mmajunkie.com/2017/06/bellator-183-benson-henderson-returns-roy-nelson-debuts|title=Benson Henderson's return, Roy Nelson's debut at Bellator 183; Bellator 181 gets new headliner|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=June 24, 2017}} He won the fight by unanimous decision in what was his first non-UFC related match in nearly 8 years.

Nelson faced Matt Mitrione in the quarterfinal round of the Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Tournament at Bellator 194 on February 16, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2017/12/5/16739362/roy-nelson-matt-mitrione-headlines-bellator-194|title=Roy Nelson vs. Matt Mitrione tournament fight headlines Bellator 194|publisher=mmafighting.com|author=Guilherme Cruz|date=December 5, 2017}} He lost the fight via majority decision.{{Cite news|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2018/2/17/17022274/bellator-194-recap-matt-mitrione-edges-roy-nelson-to-advance-to-semifinals-of-bellator-grand-prix|title=Bellator 194 results: Matt Mitrione edges Roy Nelson to advance in Bellator Heavyweight Grand Prix|work=MMA Fighting|access-date=2018-02-17}}

Nelson was expected to face Mirko Cro Cop in a rematch at Bellator 200 on May 25, 2018. However, the bout was scrapped during the week leading up to the event as Cro Cop pulled out of the fight citing an injury.{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/05/mirko-cro-cop-injured-roy-nelson-bellator-200-headliner|title=Mirko Cro Cop injured and out of Friday's Bellator 200 headliner|publisher=mmajunkie.com|author=Staff|date=May 21, 2018}}

Nelson faced Sergei Kharitonov in the Bellator 207 co-main event on October 12, 2018.{{cite web|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/08/roy-nelson-vs-sergei-kharitonov-bellator-207-co-main-event-connecticut-mma-heavyweight|title=Roy Nelson vs. Sergei Kharitonov set for Bellator 207 co-main event|author=Matt Erickson|date=August 15, 2018|publisher=mmajunkie.com}} He lost the fight via knockout in round one.{{Cite news|url=https://mmajunkie.com/2018/10/bellator-207-results-sergei-kharitonov-knocks-out-roy-nelson-with-brutal-onslaught|title=Bellator 207 results: Sergei Kharitonov knocks out Roy Nelson with brutal onslaught|date=2018-10-13|work=MMAjunkie|access-date=2018-10-13|language=en-US}}

The rematch against Mirko Cro Cop eventually took place on February 16, 2019, at Bellator 216.{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com.au/mma/story/_/id/25465601/roy-nelson-face-mirko-cro-cop-bellator-217-february|title=Roy Nelson to face Mirko Cro Cop at Bellator 217|work=espn.com|author=Ariel Helwani|date=December 6, 2018}} Nelson lost the fight by unanimous decision.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/platform/amp/2019/10/26/20933115/bellator-231-results-frank-mir-takes-decision-over-roy-nelson-in-heavyweight-rematch|title=Bellator 231 Results: Frank Mir takes decision over Roy Nelson in heavyweight rematch|work=MMAFighting.com|date=October 26, 2016}}

Nelson faced Valentin Moldavsky at Bellator 244 on August 21, 2020.{{cite web|url=https://cagesidepress.com/2020/08/07/roy-nelson-vs-valentin-moldavsky-added-bellator-244/|title=Roy Nelson vs. Valentin Moldavsky Added to Bellator 244|publisher=cagesidepress.com|author=Jay Anderson|date=August 7, 2020}} He lost the fight by unanimous decision.{{Cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/platform/amp/2020/8/21/21395983/bellator-244-results-bader-vs-nemkov|title=Bellator 244 Results: Bader vs. Nemkov|work=MMAFighting.com|date=August 21, 2020|access-date=August 21, 2020}}

On October 27, 2020, it was revealed that Nelson had been released from his Bellator MMA contract.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/platform/amp/2020/10/27/21537415/former-two-division-champion-joe-warren-ricky-bandejas-roy-nelson-among-bellator-fighters-released|title=Former two-division champion Joe Warren, Ricky Bandejas, Roy Nelson among slew of Bellator fighters no longer under contract|author=Damon Martin, Mike Heck|date=October 27, 2020|work=MMAFighting.com|access-date=October 27, 2020}}

= Gamebred Fighting Championship =

Nelson headlined Gamebred FC 4 in a bare-knuckle MMA bout against Dillon Cleckler on May 5, 2023.{{Cite web |last=Heck |first=Mike |date=2023-04-21 |title=Roy Nelson vs. Dillon Cleckler headlines Jorge Masvidal's Gamebred Bareknuckle event on May 5 |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/4/21/23691485/roy-nelson-vs-dillon-cleckler-announced-for-bare-knuckle-mma-jorge-masvidalgamebred-bareknuckle |access-date=2023-04-29 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}} He won the fight via knockout in round one.{{Cite web |title=Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA live stream, results: Roy Nelson vs. Dillon Cleckler |url=https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/lists/gamebred-bareknuckle-mma-results-roy-nelson-vs-dillon-cleckler-jorge-masvidal |website=MMA Junkie|date=May 6, 2023 }}

Nelson faced former BKFC Heavyweight Champion and UFC veteran Alan Belcher for inaugural Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA Heavyweight Championship at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 6 November 10, 2023.{{cite web|url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/9/6/23861768/alan-belcher-faces-roy-nelson-gamebred-bareknuckle-mma-heavyweight-title-oct-28-jackson-mississippi|title=Alan Belcher faces Roy Nelson for Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA heavyweight title following BKFC release|website=MMA Fighting|date=2023-09-06|access-date=2023-10-18}} He lost the fight via split decision.{{Cite web |last=Al-Shatti |first=Shaun |date=2023-11-11 |title=Alan Belcher wins puzzling split decision over Roy Nelson at Gamebred Bareknuckle 6 |url=https://www.mmafighting.com/2023/11/11/23956421/alan-belcher-wins-puzzling-split-decision-over-roy-nelson-at-gamebred-bareknuckle-6 |access-date=2023-11-12 |website=MMA Fighting |language=en}}

Fighting style

Despite possessing a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, later years saw Nelson develop a reputation for his powerful striking game, specifically his signature overhand-right.{{Cite web|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/roy-nelson-the-art-of-a-hundred-overhands|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150313231753/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/roy-nelson-the-art-of-a-hundred-overhands|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 13, 2015|title=Fightland|date=January 22, 2019 }}

Nelson is also known for having an iron chin.{{Cite web|url=http://fightland.vice.com/blog/fight-doctor-big-countrys-granite-chin|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130626002645/http://fightland.vice.com/blog/fight-doctor-big-countrys-granite-chin|url-status=dead|archive-date=June 26, 2013|title=Fightland|date=January 22, 2019 }} In fact, after his bout against fellow heavyweight Stipe Miocic at UFC 161, Nelson had broken the record for the amount of significant strikes absorbed by a fighter without being knocked out, receiving 437 strikes across his then 10-fight UFC career.{{Cite web|url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1675576-roy-nelson-sets-ufc-record-in-loss-to-stipe-miocic|title = Roy Nelson Sets UFC Record of Significant Strikes Absorbed Without KO|website = Bleacher Report}}

Personal life

Nelson is married to Jess Nelson and they have a son.{{cite AV media|publisher=Bellator|quote=Bellator Countdown - Roy Nelson vs. Matt Mitrione: Episode 1|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jubL7S_BnM |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211221/9jubL7S_BnM |archive-date=2021-12-21 |url-status=live|date=February 9, 2018|title=Bellator Countdown - Roy Nelson vs. Matt Mitrione: Episode 1}}{{cbignore}}

Nelson's nickname 'Big Country' originates from his early years in MMA, when his training partners thought Nelson was from a remarkable wrestling state like Iowa or Oklahoma because of his wrestling ability.{{cite web|url=http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/news/100-fighter-nickname-origins-part-ii|title=100 fighter nickname origins, Part II|author=Chris Palmquist|date=October 30, 2014|publisher=mixedmartialarts.com}}

Championships and accomplishments

=Mixed martial arts=

Ultimate Fighting Championship
The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights Tournament Winner
Fight of the Night (One time)
Knockout of the Night (Four times)
Performance of the Night (One time)
UFC.com Awards
2009: Ranked #2 Newcomer of the Year{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/ten-best-newcomers-2009|title=Ten Best – The Newcomers of 2009|author=Thomas Gerbasi|date=December 18, 2009|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
2014: Ranked #5 Knockout of the Year {{small|vs. Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira}}{{cite web|url=https://www.ufc.com/news/top-ten-knockouts-2014|title=Top Ten - The Knockouts of 2014|date=December 25, 2014|author=Thomas Gerbasi|work=Ultimate Fighting Championship}}
International Fight League
IFL Heavyweight Championship (One time; first; last)
IFL 2007 Heavyweight Grand Prix Champion
Most consecutive title defenses in the Heavyweight division (2)
Tied (Ryan Schultz) for most consecutive title defenses in the IFL (2)
Tied (Ryan Schultz) for most title defenses in the IFL (2)
Rage on the River
Rage on the River Heavyweight Tournament Winner

=Submission grappling=

Abu Dhabi Combat Club
2003 ADCC Submission Wrestling World Championships Quarterfinalist
Pan-American Championship Jiu Jitsu
2005 Brown Belt (+100 kg): 1st Place{{cite web |url=https://ibjjf.com/results/pan-jiu-jitsu-championship-2005-results-2/ |title=Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2005 - Results - IBJJF - International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation |website=ibjjf.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170524052310/http://ibjjf.com/results/pan-jiu-jitsu-championship-2005-results-2/ |archive-date=2017-05-24}}
2003 Brown Belt (+100 kg): 3rd Place{{cite web |url=https://ibjjf.com/results/pan-jiu-jitsu-championship-2003-results/ |title=Pan Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2003 - Results - IBJJF - International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation |website=ibjjf.com |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170524052510/http://ibjjf.com/results/pan-jiu-jitsu-championship-2003-results/ |archive-date=2017-05-24}}
Grapplers Quest
2003 Grapplers Quest Superfight Champion

Mixed martial arts record

{{MMArecordbox

|draws=

|nc=

|ko-wins=16

|ko-losses=3

|sub-wins=5

|sub-losses=

|dec-wins=3

|dec-losses=17

|dq-wins=

|dq-losses=

|other-wins=

|other-losses=

}}

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|24–20

|Alan Belcher

|Decision (split)

|Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 6

|{{dts|2023|November|10}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Biloxi, Mississippi, United States

|{{small|Bare knuckle MMA.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|24–19

|Dillon Cleckler

|TKO (punch)

|Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 4

|{{dts|2023|May|05}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|3:24

|Fort Lauderdale, Florida, United States

|{{small|Bare Knuckle MMA.}}

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|23–19

|Valentin Moldavsky

|Decision (unanimous)

|Bellator 244

|{{dts|2020|August|21}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|23–18

|Frank Mir

|Decision (unanimous)

|Bellator 231

|{{dts|2019|October|25|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|23–17

|Mirko Cro Cop

|Decision (unanimous)

|Bellator 216

|{{dts|2019|February|16}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|23–16

|Sergei Kharitonov

|KO (punches and knee)

|Bellator 207

|{{dts|2018|October|12|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|4:59

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|23–15

|Matt Mitrione

|Decision (majority)

|Bellator 194

|{{dts|2018|February|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

|{{small|Bellator Heavyweight World Grand Prix Quarterfinal.}}

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|23–14

|Javy Ayala

|Decision (unanimous)

|Bellator 183

|{{dts|2017|September|24|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|San Jose, California, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|22–14

|Alexander Volkov

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC on Fox: Johnson vs. Reis

|{{dts|2017|April|15|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Kansas City, Missouri, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|22–13

|Antônio Silva

| KO (punches)

|UFC Fight Night: Cyborg vs. Länsberg

|{{dts|2016|September|24|format=mdy}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|4:10

|Brasília, Brazil

|{{no2}}Loss

|align=center|21–13

|Derrick Lewis

| Decision (split)

|UFC Fight Night: dos Anjos vs. Alvarez

|{{dts|2016|July|7|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{yes2}}Win

|align=center|21–12

|Jared Rosholt

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Hendricks vs. Thompson

|{{dts|2016|February|6|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

|{{no2}}Loss

| align=center| 20–12

|Josh Barnett

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC Fight Night: Barnett vs. Nelson

|{{dts|2015|September|27|format=mdy}}

|align=center|5

|align=center|5:00

|Saitama, Japan

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 20–11

| Alistair Overeem

|Decision (unanimous)

|UFC 185

|{{dts|2015|March|14|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

|Dallas, Texas, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 20–10

| Mark Hunt

| KO (punch)

| UFC Fight Night: Hunt vs. Nelson

| {{dts|2014|September|20|format=mdy}}

|align=center|2

|align=center|3:00

| Saitama, Japan

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 20–9

| Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira

| KO (punch)

| UFC Fight Night: Nogueira vs. Nelson

| {{dts|2014|April|11|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|3:37

| Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

| {{small|Performance of the Night.}}

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 19–9

| Daniel Cormier

| Decision (unanimous)

| UFC 166

| {{dts|2013|October|19|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

| Houston, Texas, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 19–8

| Stipe Miocic

| Decision (unanimous)

| UFC 161

| {{dts|2013|June|15|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

| Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 19–7

| Cheick Kongo

|KO (punches)

| UFC 159

| {{dts|2013|April|27|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|2:03

| Newark, New Jersey, United States

| {{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 18–7

| Matt Mitrione

| TKO (punches)

| The Ultimate Fighter: Team Carwin vs. Team Nelson Finale

| {{dts|2012|December|15|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|2:58

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 17–7

| Dave Herman

|KO (punch)

| UFC 146

| {{dts|2012|May|26|format=mdy}}

|align=center|1

|align=center|0:51

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 16–7

| Fabrício Werdum

|Decision (unanimous)

| UFC 143

| {{dts|2012|February|4|format=mdy}}

|align=center|3

|align=center|5:00

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Fight of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 16–6

| Mirko Cro Cop

|TKO (punches)

| UFC 137

| {{dts|2011|October|29|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 1:30

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 15–6

| Frank Mir

|Decision (unanimous)

| UFC 130

| {{dts|2011|May|28|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 15–5

| Junior dos Santos

| Decision (unanimous)

| UFC 117

| {{dts|2010|August|07|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Oakland, California, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 15–4

| Stefan Struve

| TKO (punches)

| UFC Fight Night: Florian vs. Gomi

| {{dts|2010|March|31|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 0:39

| Charlotte, North Carolina, United States

| {{small|Knockout of the Night.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 14–4

| Brendan Schaub

| KO (punch)

| The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights Finale

| {{dts|2009|December|5|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 3:45

|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Won The Ultimate Fighter 10 Tournament. Knockout of the Night.}}

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 13–4

|Jeff Monson

| Decision (unanimous)

| SRP: March Badness

| {{dts|2009|March|21|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Pensacola, Florida, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 13–3

| Andrei Arlovski

| KO (punch)

| EliteXC: Heat

| {{dts|2008|October|4|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 3:14

| Sunrise, Florida, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 13–2

| Brad Imes

| KO (punch)

| IFL: Connecticut

| {{dts|2008|May|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center|3:55

| Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

| {{small|Defended the IFL Heavyweight Championship.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 12–2

|Fabiano Scherner

| TKO (punches)

| IFL: Las Vegas

| {{dts|2008|February|29|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 3:20

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Defended the IFL Heavyweight Championship.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 11–2

| Antoine Jaoude

| KO (punch)

| IFL: World Grand Prix Finals

| {{dts|2007|December|29|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 0:22

| Uncasville, Connecticut, United States

| {{small|Won the inaugural IFL Heavyweight Championship.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 10–2

|Bryan Vetell

| TKO (punches)

| IFL: World Grand Prix Semifinals

| {{dts|2007|November|3|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 1:01

| Chicago, Illinois, United States

| {{small|IFL 2007 Heavyweight GP Semi-final.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 9–2

|Shane Ott

| Decision (unanimous)

| IFL: Las Vegas

| {{dts|2007|June|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 4:00

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 8–2

| Ben Rothwell

| Decision (split)

| IFL: Moline

| {{dts|2007|April|7|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 4:00

| Moline, Illinois, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 8–1

| Mario Rinaldi

| TKO (punches)

| BodogFIGHT: Costa Rica Combat

| {{dts|2007|February|17|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 2:38

| San José, Costa Rica

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 7–1

|Vince Lucero

| TKO (punches)

| IFL: Oakland

| {{dts|2007|January|19|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 1:55

| Oakland, California, United States

| {{no2}}Loss

|align=center| 6–1

| Josh Curran

| Decision (unanimous)

| BodogFIGHT: Clash of Nations

| {{dts|2006|December|16|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 5:00

| Saint Petersburg, Russia

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 6–0

|Jerome Smith

| Submission (arm-triangle choke)

| FightForce: Butte Brawl 2

| {{dts|2006|July|22|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 4:13

| Butte, Montana, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 5–0

|Jason Godsey

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

| FightForce: Butte Brawl 1

| {{dts|2006|May|6|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 4:42

| Butte, Montana, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 4–0

|Michael Buchkovich

| Submission (rear-naked choke)

| World Extreme Fighting 17

| {{dts|2006|April|1|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 0:56

| Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 3–0

|Ray Seraile

| TKO (submission to punches)

| PXC 3: Return of the Enforcer

| {{dts|2004|August|28|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 3:41

| Mangilao, Guam

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 2–0

|Jerry Vrbanovic

| Decision (split)

| rowspan=2|Rage on the River

| rowspan=2|{{dts|2004|April|17|format=mdy}}

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 3:00

| rowspan=2|Redding, California, United States

| {{small|Won the Rage on the River Heavyweight Tournament.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 1–0

|Bo Cantrell

| Submission (hammerlock)

|align=center| 3

|align=center| 2:52

| {{small|Rage on the River Heavyweight Tournament Semi-final.}}

=Mixed martial arts exhibition record=

{{MMA exhibition record box

|wins=3

|losses=0

|ko-wins=2

|ko-losses=

|sub-wins=

|sub-losses=

|dec-wins=1

|dec-losses=

}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 3–0

| James McSweeney

| TKO (punches)

| rowspan=3|The Ultimate Fighter: Heavyweights

| December 2, 2009 (air date)

|align=center| 1

|align=center| 4:13

| rowspan=3|Las Vegas, Nevada, United States

| {{small|Semi-finals.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 2–0

| Justin Wren

| Decision (majority)

| November 11, 2009 (air date)

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 5:00

| {{small|Quarter-finals.}}

| {{yes2}}Win

|align=center| 1–0

| Kimbo Slice

| TKO (punches)

| June 10, 2009, aired on September 30, 2009

|align=center| 2

|align=center| 2:01

| {{small|Preliminary bout.}}

{{cite web|url=http://www.sherdog.com/fighter/Roy-Nelson-10249|title=Roy|last=Sherdog.com|website=Sherdog|access-date=2018-10-13}}

References

External links

[http://www.mixedmartialarts.com/f/8B9C544261295E05/Roy-Nelson/ Roy Nelson's Official MMA Record]
[http://www.roynelson.com/ Official website]
[https://www.ufc.com/athlete/roy-nelson Official UFC Profile]
{{Sherdog}}

{{S-ttl|title=1st IFL Heavyweight Champion|years=December 29, 2007 – July 31, 2008}}

Category:1976 births

Category:Living people

Category:American male mixed martial artists

Category:American male sport wrestlers

Category:Heavyweight mixed martial artists

Category:American practitioners of Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:American submission wrestlers

Category:American Shaolinquan practitioners

Category:American male boxers

Category:People awarded a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu

Category:Sportspeople from the Las Vegas Valley